If you’ve ever spent any time playing around with the online configurators from the premium German automakers, you’ll know that options generally don’t come cheap. So, for a bit of fun we decided to see just how expensive we could make a base version of the new Mercedes-Benz A-Class by adding as many optional extras as possible (even if nobody in their right mind would actually do this in reality).

Take note, of course, that some packages and options can’t be specified in conjunction with others, so this exercise represents more than a mere tallying up of prices. Indeed, plenty of trial and error saw us arrive at this final result.

We went for the entry-level A200, which is powered by a new 1,3-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine worth 120 kW and 250 N.m. In South Africa, this unit is paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission as standard, allowing a claimed 0-100 km/h time of 8,0 seconds. Also note that the A200 makes do with a torsion beam rear suspension arrangement.

For the record, highlights of the standard features list include 16-inch alloys, rain-sensing wipers, the new MBUX multimedia system, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto functionality and tyre pressure monitoring.

So, just how much could we add to the price in the form of options? A whopping R380 933, which takes the total for our cheeky little build to R879 933 (before CO2 emissions tax).

Of course, we had to have a panoramic sunroof (R15 200) and trailer coupling (R11 000), too, and also added a memory seat package (R11 600) and climatised front perches (R12 000) with lumbar support (R4 000), before upgrading from the standard Thermatic climate control to the Thermotronic version (R9 000).

Specifying a 10,25-inch display set us back another R10 000, while extended MBUX functions added a further R6 500. We also opted for the all-digital instrument display (R6 500), a touchpad (R3 000), wireless charging (R3 000), hard-disc navigation (R8 200), digital radio (R3 000) and, of course, the Burmester surround sound system (R10 200).

Ryan has spent most of his career in online media, writing about everything from sport to politics and other forms of crime. But his true passion – reignited by a 1971 Austin Mini Mk3 still tucked lifeless in a dark corner of his garage – is of the automotive variety.